I need to find a good mechanic in the Northern California area for rear axle seals and bearings. i my rear axle is leaking REAL bad and i have a 600 mile (1200 round trip) drive home in week and half. any suggestions or recommendations?

 

night bump

 

I like these guys, but they're pricey.

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f39/autotron-northern-ca-bay-area-great-shop-64444/

 

i was suggested to call Valley Differentials here in stockton. they quoted me 350 for both sides, with new inners, outers, and bearings. the BBB has no complaints about them since they started in nov 2001.

 

I'm not sure if my mechanic can do the work, but the service is great, they are in Orangevale (near Folsom) so it's kind of a drive for you. I've had them do pretty much all the general work on my 4Runner in the 5 years I've had it, and my parents have been using them long before that. they're web site is http://www.scottysautomotive.com/

Another option that I know of is Jaw's Gear and Axle in Sacramento (http://www.jawsgear.com/store/catalog/contact_us.php). I know nothing about them aside from the fact that they exist.

Either way both are going to be about a 1-1.5 hrs drive.

good luck

 

the more i talk to people the more this Valley Differentials sounds like the place to go. is 350 a reasonable price?

 

That doesn't seem too bad. The parts are $75 per side over at Trail-Gear for your model, and here's an idea of what you have to do for labor (although the write up is for a 3rd gen you get the idea) which just reminded me. Is the quote for both sides or just for the leaky one?

Edit: Crap. Forgot the link. https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f128/replacing-rear-axle-seals-3rd-gen-4runner-76339/

 

350 is for both sides.... and if iirc you need to press the bearing out and in on the rear axle of 2nd gens.

 

Hah! Just saw your post on another thread. I guess you know how much the parts are over at TG!!!

 

lol ya. i just dont have time/tool/ place to do it myself. like i said i have a week and a day before i leave for home and i dont want a leaking axle for a 10+ hr drive.